Are you feeling a bit stressed this week? Stress is detrimental to your overall health and well-being – not to mention your cardiovascular health.

A great way to give yourself a break is to practice some purposeful stretches to help your body release the stress and tension throughout your stressful days.

Focusing on body movements that relax your stress tension points can have a big impact on your stress management.

Stretching can help release that stress from your system. Use stretches that target your tension carrying muscles including your shoulders, abdominal muscles, upper and lower back, neck and other key tension points. This can make a difference in managing your stress throughout the day. Looking for some specific stretches to try? Prevention Magazine shares three moves for stress management. Learn the three moves and their benefits for your system by clicking here.

With each of these movements, it is important to stretch only as far as comfortably possible and focus on your breathing. An optimal stress relief plan, also includes regular exercise, balanced nutrition and the guidance of your doctor.